Backyards
Front Yards
Front Yard Walkway Ideas
3 design considerations for front walkways
This classic front yard walkway leads from the driveway to the front porch. Elaine M. Johnson Landscape Design in Centerville, MA.
Walkways are an important part of front yard landscaping. A beautiful walkway will greatly enhance your home's curb appeal and provide a way for you and guests to get to your front door. You'll want the walkway to look nice and be easy to walk on since it will serve as an entrance to your home. Whether it will lead straight to your front door, or to a small courtyard garden or porch, there are many design options for front yard walkways.
Three important front walkway design considerations:
- Width
- Shape
- Paving Materials
Determining Front Walkway Width
Whether your walkway leads from the street to the front door, from the driveway to the front door, or from the front yard to the backyard, the walkway width is very important. When you are hosting parties or family gatherings it is likely that many people will be using the walkway. It should be wide enough that two people can comfortably walk side-by-side. Four feet is the minimum width for a front walkway, but five feet is preferred. Get more information about walkway dimensions.
Concrete Walkway Design
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See how this modern concrete walkway was designed and learn about walkway rhythm and texture.
Choosing the Shape of a Front Yard Walkway
There are a few factors that should be considered when deciding on your front walkway shape. The first factor is the size of your yard. Typically, small front yards look best with a simple straight walkway, while a curved walkway can add much needed design interest to a large front garden. The second factor is the style of your home. If your home has a traditional colonial or Victorian style than a formal, straight path is the best option. A straight entry walkway will help to emphasize your front door as the focal point of your home. If your home has a ranch or Mediterranean style an informal, curved path is the best option. However, be careful not to overdo the curves because then people will take shortcuts through your front lawn.
Selecting Paving Materials for a Front Walkway
Since a front walkway is a big part of your home's curb appeal you should select materials that complement the exterior of your home. For example, if your house has brick accents a concrete walkway with a brick border would look especially nice. When selecting materials for your walkway, keep in mind that solid paving, such as concrete, stone or pavers, is easier and safer to walk on than stepping stones or gravel.
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